How many pupils in Essex go truant, do you think?
Well, the Guardian has produced a interactive map showing truancy levels across the UK.
Essex seems to be around average.
In 2010/11 10,500 pupils under Essex County Council were absent for more than 15% of the school year. That’s a startling 5.9 % of all pupils.
By comparison, the rate in Kent is 6.5%. The rate under Southend Borough Council is 6.2 %